Analytical Chemist

CPS, Inc.; Glenview (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

CPS, Inc. is seeking an Analytical Chemist to conduct analytical testing for flavor and fragrance programs. You will operate and troubleshoot GC-FID, GC-MS, LC-MS, and HPLC systems, interpret data, and prepare technical reports for internal and external stakeholders.

The ideal candidate has a bachelor’s in chemistry or related field and at least 3 years of analytical experience, with a strong focus on instrument performance, method development, and regulatory compliance in a laboratory setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor-level degree in a relevant scientific field with lab hands-on experience.
• 3+ years analytical chemistry experience or equivalent.
• Experience operating GC-FID/GC-MS/LC-MS/HPLC variants and data interpretation.

Responsibilities

• Perform analytical testing to support flavor, fragrance, and quality control projects.
• Calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot instrumentation (GC-FID, GC-MS, LC-MS, HPLC).
• Develop and validate analytical methods and sampling procedures.
• Create reports and communicate results to teams and stakeholders.
• Ensure GMP, HACCP, and other standards are met in the lab.

Skills

Analytical chemistry

Instrument troubleshooting

Laboratory data interpretation

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Food Science, or a related scientific discipline

Tools

GC-FID

GC-MS

LC-MS

HPLC-UV

HPLC-RI

HPLC/MS

SPME

Headspace analysis

Thermal desorption

Job description

Position Summary

The Analytical Chemist is responsible for conducting analytical testing and research, evaluating and interpreting laboratory data, preparing technical reports, and communicating findings to internal and external stakeholders. This role requires strong technical expertise, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively across multiple departments while maintaining a safe, organized, and compliant laboratory environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct analytical testing and research to support flavor, fragrance, and quality control initiatives, including selecting analytical methods, preparing samples, operating laboratory instrumentation, analyzing and interpreting results, preparing reports, and communicating findings.
• Operate, calibrate, maintain, and assist with troubleshooting analytical instrumentation, including GC-FID, GC-MS, LC-MS, and HPLC systems.
• Support the development, optimization, and validation of analytical methods, chromatographic techniques, and sampling procedures.
• Participate in sensory and organoleptic evaluations as required by project teams.
• Collaborate with cross-functional departments, including Research & Development, Quality Control, Sales, and customer-facing teams.
• Create, organize, and maintain electronic and hard-copy laboratory records and product documentation.
• Monitor laboratory inventory and coordinate the ordering of chemicals, supplies, and instrument consumables.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment while adhering to established safety policies and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Support quality, food safety, and regulatory compliance programs, including Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), HACCP, SQF, Kosher, Halal, FDA, USDA, EPA, DOT, DEA, FSMA, and other applicable standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Food Science, or a related scientific discipline.
• 3+ years of analytical chemistry experience or an equivalent combination of education and relevant laboratory experience.
• Hands-on experience operating and troubleshooting analytical instrumentation, including GC-FID, GC-MS, LC-MS, HPLC-UV, HPLC-RI, HPLC/MS, SPME, headspace analysis, and thermal desorption techniques.
• Proficiency with laboratory software and Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience with ChemStation, MassHunter, AMDIS, and NIST software is preferred.

Salary

$90,000 - $110,000